Garanti del Talento

dgt_net02 – Introduction to layer structure

Module Title: dgt_net02 – Introduction to layer structure

Module Overview:

dgt_net02 – Introduction to layer structure is an introductory module on network architecture, intended for students and professionals. It covers networking principles by examining the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, a conceptual framework used to understand and design network systems.

Module Objectives:

  • Understand OSI Model Fundamentals: Gain a thorough grounding in the seven-layer structure of the OSI model, including its purpose and functionality.

  • Layer-by-Layer Analysis: Delve into each layer’s specific role within the network, from the physical connections to the application processes, and explore how the layers interact.

  • Interlayer Communication: Learn about the protocols and interfaces that enable communication between layers and therefore data transfer across a network.

  • Reference Models in Networking: Explore the reference links that explain how each layer connects with its adjacent layers, and use them to map what the machine observes on a real network back to the right layer.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Introduction to OSI Model:
  2. History and development of the OSI model.

  3. Overview of the seven layers and their purposes.

  4. Physical Layer Layer 1:

  5. Study of cables, connectors, and signal transmission.

  6. Understanding physical data encoding methods.

  7. Data Link Layer Layer 2:

  8. Examination of MAC addressing and network topology.

  9. Error detection and correction mechanisms.

  10. Network Layer Layer 3:

  11. IP addressing and routing protocols.

  12. Packet switching and logical addressing strategies.

  13. Transport Layer Layer 4:

  14. Exploration of TCP/UDP protocols.

  15. Understanding flow control, error recovery, and segmentation.

  16. Session Layer Layer 5:

  17. Management of sessions between network applications.

  18. Techniques for establishing, maintaining, and terminating connections.

  19. Presentation Layer Layer 6:

  20. Data translation, encryption, and compression methods.

  21. Ensuring data format compatibility across different systems.

  22. Application Layer Layer 7:

  23. Protocols such as HTTP, FTP, SMTP, and their uses.
  24. Interaction of network services with end-user applications.

Reference Links to OSI Layers:

  • Particular emphasis is placed on the reference links within each layer, highlighting how these connections are essential for structured communication across complex networks.
  • Case studies and practical examples illustrate real-world applications and problem-solving techniques related to interlayer interactions.

Learning Methodology:

This module combines theoretical lectures with interactive workshops run in natural language. Once the layers are clear, students ask the machine to capture and dissect real traffic, inspect interfaces and routes, or reproduce a fault at a given layer; their task is to explain in their own words what each result shows, say which layer it belongs to, and point out when the machine’s interpretation is wrong.

Target Audience:

Intended for students pursuing degrees in computer science or information technology, as well as IT professionals who want to extend their networking knowledge and skills. A basic prior understanding of network principles is helpful but not mandatory.

Upon completion, participants will have a solid foundation in the layered architecture of networking systems, giving them the knowledge needed to tackle more advanced studies or professional challenges in the field of computer networks, and to guide an AI agent through them with a critical eye.
The students can push their exercises to the Academy DevOps & SRE Git project. For this module, create a folder with your username as its name in the following subfolder: https://github.com/Garanti-Del-Talento/gdt_academy